Individuals and employers can learn how they may be affected by the Affordable Care Act  by tapping into AskBlue Health Care Reform , an interactive, online tool from Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield.

AskBlue Health Care Reform provides a simple, straightforward explanation of healthcare reform. By answering just a few simple questions, AskBlue offers users personalized information about the changes that will most likely impact them. At the end of the experience, users receive a summary of what they’ve learned, the option to print or email their summary, as well as access to additional resources, such as www.healthcare.gov  and www.Medicare.gov .   

Business owners looking to understand how reform will impact their business and their employees can also utilize AskBlue Healthcare Reform’s business tax calculator to help determine if the business is eligible for a healthcare tax credit and understand other financial implications.

“Health care reform is complex, and it’s important for both individuals and employers to understand how the new law will affect them, says Keith Heckel, Wellmark executive vice president for sales and marketing. “AskBlue Health Care Reform is a great resource available to anyone who wants more information.”

AskBlue Health Care Reform joins a suite of interactive tools developed by the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association to help consumers understand their healthcare options. The service was launched in June 2009 to help individuals who are uninsured, unemployed, or who have lost their employer-based coverage find individual coverage options that fit their personal needs and budget. AskBlue Medicare,” which helps older Americans, people with certain disabilities, and their families better understand Medicare and their options, is also available. To learn more about the AskBlue suite of tools, visit www.BCBS.com.